Windows User Accounts

There are two types of user accounts in Windows 10. NEVER use the administrator account to surf the web, pay bills, check email, etc. Create a Standard User account for everyday use.

  • Administrator accounts have complete control over a computer. Users with this type of account can change settings globally, install programs, get through the User Account Control (UAC) when elevation to perform a task is required, and everything else.
  • Standard User accounts have more limited control. Users with this type of account can run applications, but they can’t install new programs. Users can change system settings, but only settings that won’t affect other accounts. If a task requires elevations an username and password for an administrator will be needed to pass through the UAC prompt.

Create or Change User account type

  1. Use the Windows key + I keyboard shortcut to open the Settings app.
  2. Click Accounts.
  3. Click Family & other people.
  4. Click Add someone else to this PC to create a separate account to login as a Standard User

Under Account type, select Administrator or Standard User from the drop down menu.

Click OK to complete the task.